J. A. Berdan and others to Richard Yates

Jacksonville Ill: July 12th 1862.

His Excellency Gov. Yates

Dear Sir, The undersigned respectfully, but earnestly, solicit the appointment of Assistant Surgeon in one of the new Regiments of Volunteers from this State, for our Townsman Dr. Robert E. Stevenson, whom we know to be qualified, and who is among our most loyal & patriotic citizens. He is a graduate of Rush Medical College, and at the outbreak of the Rebellion enrolled himself as a private in Capt Jno. W. King's company of Three months' soldiers who hastened to the relief of Cairo where he remained through the term of enlistment and has since been professionally employed in Jacksonville where his standing and consideration as a physician & a gentleman have commended him so much to our esteem, that now that he is again animated with the desire to engage in the service of the country, it gives us sincere pleasure to second his wishes.

Yours, most truly,

Jas. Berdan

J. W. Lathrop

Ira Davenport

J H Bancroft

Wm M Mayo

Wm Ratckin

Wm B Johnson

J D Strong

J. P. Aut

D. A. Smith

H. J. Atkins

John W. Wood

E R Elliott

J. O. King

A. C. Wadsworth

D. H. Hamilton

Mat Stacy

H. B. McClure

James Berdan & oths

Jacksonville July 12/62

Petition of citizens for appointment of Dr Robert E. Stevenson as asst Surgeon Graduate of Rush Medl College served as private after 1st call give the Dr a very good recommend in every respect.

Certificate issued to Bd of Med Ex

July 15th